Salvation is the beginning of a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. If He is your Savior, you can have joy that is founded on realities that are unaffected by conditions around you. But there is more.

You believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.

I Peter 1:8

Tried and tested by fire, the genuineness of your faith may result in praise, honor and glory. Peter assures his readers that they and you have a “living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ…to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading.” (I Peter 1:3-4) If you know Christ, you have hope, and if you have hope, you can walk in holiness and harmony with the Lord.

Follow these directives: Love Christ – get to know Him better through God’s Word. Trust Christ – believe that all things work together for good even if you don’t see how (Romans 8:28). Rejoice in Christ – center your heart and mind on Him in all circumstances. You will learn something new and wonderful about your Savior. And your joy will be inexpressible, no matter the circumstance. Then intercede for those who lead this nation to follow Jesus and have hope and joy in Him.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 3:13-4:1